- New Energy Equity partners with the Harlem School District to develop a 5.54 MW DC solar project, which will reduce energy costs for the district and its residents.
- The project supports over 39,000 students across 11 schools and aligns with Illinois’ renewable energy goals under the Adjustable Block Program (ABP).
- The initiative highlights collaboration between public institutions and private companies to drive sustainable energy solutions and benefit local communities.
New Energy Equity, a solar project developer, has partnered with the Harlem Consolidated School District to deliver a 5.54 MW DC solar project. The project will provide economic and energy benefits to the district and the community in the Commonwealth Edison service area.
The school district will host the solar project on its land in Winnebago County. By offsetting a significant portion of its electricity needs, the district expects to cut energy costs significantly. Serving over 39,000 students across 11 schools, the district will reduce its operational expenses while contributing to local clean energy efforts.
Residents in the Commonwealth Edison service area will also gain access to discounted electricity, increasing the project’s impact. BOW Renewables developed the project before New Energy Equity acquired it.
This initiative is part of the Illinois Public Schools Program, under the state’s Adjustable Block Program (ABP), supporting renewable energy growth. The project aligns with Illinois’ renewable energy targets, expanding access to solar power and reinforcing the school district’s commitment to sustainability.
Jackie Chambers, Director of Investments at New Energy Equity, emphasised the partnership’s value. “This collaboration shows how public institutions and private companies can drive renewable energy growth,” she said.
Bryan Segarra, Director of Development at BOW Renewables, highlighted the project’s regional benefits. “We are excited about the tangible benefits this project will bring to the community while advancing Illinois’ clean energy goals,” he said.
The Harlem School District expects the solar project to benefit students, families, and the wider community. The district sees the initiative as a step toward innovation and social responsibility, deepening its focus on sustainable energy.
This collaboration reflects a broader trend of school districts embracing renewable energy to cut costs and promote sustainability. The project shrinks the school district’s carbon footprint and sets an example for other Illinois schools to follow in renewable energy efforts.
In conclusion, the New Energy Equity and Harlem School District solar project promises lasting benefits. It showcases how solar energy can reduce costs, support environmental stewardship, and create positive change for educational institutions and local communities.